Crispy Blooming Onion (Printable Version)

Golden crispy onion blossom with seasoned batter and zesty creamy dip

# What You Need:

→ Blooming Onion Batter

01 - 1 large sweet onion (such as Vidalia)
02 - 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
03 - 2 teaspoons paprika
04 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
05 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
06 - 1 teaspoon salt
07 - 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
08 - 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
09 - 2 large eggs
10 - 1 cup whole milk
11 - Vegetable oil, for frying

→ Creamy Dipping Sauce

12 - 1/2 cup mayonnaise
13 - 2 tablespoons sour cream
14 - 1 tablespoon ketchup
15 - 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish
16 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
17 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
18 - 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
19 - Salt and black pepper, to taste

# How to Make:

01 - Whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, ketchup, horseradish, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
02 - Peel the onion and trim 1/2 inch off the top (stem end), leaving the root intact. Place onion cut-side down. Starting 1/2 inch from the root, make downward cuts all around the onion to create 12–16 sections (petals), being careful not to cut through the root. Turn onion over and gently separate the petals.
03 - Whisk together flour, paprika, garlic powder, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper in a large bowl until thoroughly combined.
04 - Beat eggs with milk in a separate bowl until fully blended.
05 - Dredge the onion in the flour mixture, ensuring you coat between all the petals. Shake off excess flour.
06 - Dip the onion into the egg mixture, making sure it penetrates between all the petals.
07 - Coat the onion again in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to help the coating adhere. Shake off any excess.
08 - Heat at least 3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pot or fryer to 375°F.
09 - Using a slotted spoon or spider, carefully lower the onion, cut-side down, into the hot oil. Fry for 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy.
10 - Remove the onion from the oil and drain on paper towels. Season lightly with salt while hot.
11 - Serve immediately with the prepared creamy dipping sauce.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Creates a stunning presentation that impresses every time
  • Perfect balance of crispy exterior and tender, sweet onion inside
  • The creamy dipping sauce with horseradish adds the perfect tangy kick
  • Serves 4 people as a shareable appetizer in just 35 minutes
  • Vegetarian-friendly indulgence for your next gathering
02 -
  • Use a thermometer to maintain oil at exactly 375°F for perfect crispiness
  • Double coating the onion creates that signature crunchy texture
  • Separate the petals gently after cutting to allow batter to coat all surfaces
  • Season with salt immediately after removing from oil while still hot
  • Make the dipping sauce ahead and refrigerate to allow flavors to meld
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